11 x 20 Space...Good Enough?

[quakers1]

Hello all,

After prospecting around...it looks like I can get my hands on a 11 x 20 space for me to build a model railroad in. I do want to build in N Scale (this isn't too big for an HO layout space, plus I like N scale better anyways). I was wondering, would this fit a decent layout?

Since this is a smaller space, I have toyed around with the idea of making my layout a multi-level one...this would extend the mainline run by a lot.

So, is 11x20 a good sized space for an N scale railroad?

Thanks for any help and advice,

-Skylar

PS-Since I plan on modeling in the current era, I will run big 6-axle diesels, 89' TOFC cars, Autoracks, and longer freight cars. What would be the minimum curve radius to run these types of equipment to where it looks realisitic?

 

[cncproadwarrior]

Many of us would kill for an 11x20 space... figuratively speaking of course.

 

[quakers1]

Ya...i am glad i can access it...and i know its figuratively speaking...model trains are the bomb, but there is no need to break the law over them =)

 

[quakers1]

So, i was reading around...are 20" radius curves in N scale good enough to run the large equipment i mentioned in my first post?

 

[BN8002]

thats plenty of room..its even enough room for HO...I'm in the middle of building a double deck ho layout in a 9x25 space...I did put a helix in the adjacent garage..but i was able to get a lot int he small space..so for N scale you will be golden

 

[brickbuilder711]

If it is twice the area I have set up for an already well sized HO layout, it is probably what N scale modelers would wish to ever have. It's a wonderful size!

 

[nephthyr]

For N scale that's a really nice size, but for HO its quite small. 20" Radius curves in N scale are very decent, you should have no issues running large equipment around those curves. Try to add some easements which will make your trains run even better!

 

[BN8002]

For N scale that's a really nice size, but for HO its quite small. 20" Radius curves in N scale are very decent, you should have no issues running large equipment around those curves. Try to add some easements which will make your trains run even better!

for an ho switching layout its a decent size.

 

[OCN Guy]

For N scale - you have a HUGE space!!!
Wow!
I'm building in a 5'X7' space, and I considered that a REALLY good size.
You are now the envy of every N scaler that lives in an apartment. You should be able to run ANYTHING in N scale very well. I'm running a 4-8-4 on 11.25 curves, so 20" radius should be able to support everything N scale no sweat.

 

[quakers1]

Hello,

Thanks for all of your help! I figured this space would be good, since N scale doesn't eat as much space. But, I figured I'd check with people that have more experience.

Now, I am looking for a good prototype to model. Here are some things I do have figured out:

I DO wish to model a modern day layout. There seems to be lots of equipment out there for the BNSF, CSX, and UP, so the prototype will be between these two railroads.

Here are some standards that I would like to have:

At least one major yard

Some grades to make things interesting

Some industries for switching

Good scenery opportunities

Also, is there any good track-planning software available? I have been drawing plans on grid paper here lately, but I feel I could be more accurate with my plans if I were to have some sort of software.

Thanks for all of your help!

-Skylar

 

[Steamfreak]

Here you go....Enough to keep you busy for some time....

http://www.building-your-model-railroad.com/model-railroad-software.html

Good luck..!! And post your progress, problems, whatever....

 

[BN8002]

Hello,

Thanks for all of your help! I figured this space would be good, since N scale doesn't eat as much space. But, I figured I'd check with people that have more experience.

Now, I am looking for a good prototype to model. Here are some things I do have figured out:

I DO wish to model a modern day layout. There seems to be lots of equipment out there for the BNSF, CSX, and UP, so the prototype will be between these two railroads.

Here are some standards that I would like to have:

At least one major yard

Some grades to make things interesting

Some industries for switching

Good scenery opportunities

Also, is there any good track-planning software available? I have been drawing plans on grid paper here lately, but I feel I could be more accurate with my plans if I were to have some sort of software.

Thanks for all of your help!

-Skylar

with those features you can pretty much model anywhere

as far as track planning software I have the 3rd PlanIt and I absolutely love it.